At Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, we often hear our customers ask, “How often should I replace my tires?”
The answer is: it varies! We know no one likes to hear this, but tire replacement is based on driving habits, weather conditions, tire age, and more. There is no one-size-fits-all recommendation.
Short answer: You should replace your tires when the tread is low and your tires are in poor condition. But what does this look like?
Learn how to know when it’s time for new tires, including mileage and age guidelines, tread depth requirements for safe driving, whether you need to replace all four tires on an AWD vehicle, and how you can check your tires yourself.
Knowing when to replace your tires isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety, performance, and avoiding costly damage to your vehicle. Dive in and learn when it’s time to replace your tires.
How Often to Replace Your Tires: Check Tire Condition
You know it’s time to replace your tires when the tread depth is low, the tires are old, you’ve racked up a lot of mileage, or they’re just in poor condition. Learn why these four signs are your reason to replace your tires today, so you can stay safe on the road.
Tread Depth
Tread depth is one of the easiest ways to know it’s time to replace your tires. In Maryland, similar to most states, the legal minimum tread depth is 2/32 of an inch. What does this mean?
The Penny Test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is below 2/32″—time for replacement.
The Dangers
Driving on tires with less tread than the recommended measurement is dangerous. Maryland’s frequent rain and heavy storms makes deep tread essential for preventing hydroplaning on wet roads. Even light snow can be dangerous with low tread. You risk slipping, sliding, and losing control of the vehicle.
Tip: Do the quarter test if you’re worried about your tires. Put a quarter upside down in your tire tread. If the tread doesn’t cover the top of George Washington’s head, it’s time to start shopping for new tires. This gives you enough time to find the right pair of tires and set up a tire installation and balance appointment at your local auto shop.
Tire Age
A lot of drivers say, “I don’t drive that often or that far, my tires should last forever!” Unfortunately, tires wear even without a lot of driving. Heat, sunlight, and exposure to the elements break down rubber compounds, leading to cracks and weakened structure that can be dangerous on the road. Don’t assume that just because your car isn’t a daily driver that you don’t need to do tire checks.
The general rule for tire replacement is to replace your tires every 6 years, regardless of tread, and never keep them longer than 10 years. If you don’t know how old your tires are, there is an easy way to check.
How to Check Tire Age: Look for the DOT code on the sidewall of your tire. The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture (e.g., “3219” means the tire was made in the 32nd week of 2019).
If your tires are approaching 6 years old, schedule an inspection at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care to ensure they’re still safe.
Mileage
What is the lifespan of an average tire? Most tires last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles, but this varies. Aggressive driving habits, high speeds, construction zones, and potholes can all wear tires out faster. Skipping maintenance, like regular rotations and alignments, can also shorten a tire’s lifespan.
Know Your Driving Habits
If you drive around 12,000–15,000 miles per year (average for U.S. drivers), expect to replace tires about every 4 to 5 years. This may be more due to construction or other factors, so schedule a tire inspection once a year with a trusted auto shop near you.
Condition
At the end of the day, your tires need to be replaced if they’re in poor condition, regardless of age, mileage, or tread depth. Know the signs your tires need to be replaced and call for a tire replacement ASAP.
Signs of Bad Tire Condition
- Bald Spots or Uneven Wear: Often caused by misalignment or unbalanced tires.
- Cracks or Bulges: Indicate internal structural failure.
- Persistent Low Pressure: Could mean a slow leak or sidewall damage.
Do You Have to Replace All 4 Tires on AWD Vehicles?
Because of Maryland’s extreme weather, many drivers are opting for all-wheel-drive vehicles. When you need to replace your tires, is it best to replace all four at once?
If you drive a crossover or SUV, the short answer is: yes. AWD systems rely on all four tires spinning at the same speed. If there are differences in tread depth or overall tire condition, this can strain the drivetrain, leading to costly repairs down the line that involve more than just a tire replacement.
When You Can Replace Only 2 Tires on an AWD Vehicle:
- Your existing tires are fairly new
- The new tires are shaved down to match the remaining tread depth
An experienced tire replacement shop can help. Call Hoffmaster’s Auto Care for tire service in Silver Spring, MD to get the best deal on tire installation and avoid unnecessary tire replacement.
How to Check Your Tires at Home
Worried about your tires? Here are some simple tests to do at home so you know when it’s time to replace your tires.
1. The Penny (or Quarter) Test
Insert a penny, or a quarter, upside down into the tire tread. If the head isn’t covered, it’s time for a new tire replacement.
Penny: your tires are dangerous and need a replacement
Quarter: start shopping today, no immediate attention required, but sooner is better
2. Check for Uneven Wear
Run your hand gently over the tire surface:
If you feel smooth areas next to high spots, you may have alignment issues.
If the inside or outside edge is worn more than the center, you may have incorrect tire pressure.
3. Look for Cracks, Bulges, or Objects
Visually inspect the sidewalls of your tires. You are looking for:
- Cracks
- Bulges
- Embedded nails
- Debris
- Damage
4. Check Tire Age
You want to have a record of your tire’s age for reference. This will help with determining when to replace your tires and if your auto shop has questions about your tire’s condition. Look up your tire age using the DOT code on the sidewall. Make a note of this and keep it with your car’s care records.
5. Monitor Tire Pressure
One of the best ways to monitor your tire’s condition is by checking the tire pressure on a monthly basis. Use a reliable tire gauge once a month and before road trips to make sure your tires are within the recommended PSI.
Underinflated tires wear out faster and can cause blowouts. If you notice your tires are continually underpressure, this is a sign you have tire damage and may need a new tire replacement.
Why Timely Tire Replacement Matters
Safety: Worn tires decrease stopping power, especially in rain or snow.
Fuel Efficiency: New tires improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance and improving MPG.
Vehicle Longevity: Proper tires protect suspension and drivetrain components.
When in Doubt, Visit Hoffmaster’s Auto Care for Tire Installation
Tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road. Knowing how often to replace them—by monitoring tread depth, mileage, age, and overall condition—keeps you safe and saves you money in the long run.
For Maryland drivers, where weather and road conditions can be unpredictable, staying proactive is key. If you’re unsure whether your tires need replacement, bring your vehicle to Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring.
Don’t wait until you’re stranded on I-495 with a blown tire. Call us today to schedule a tire inspection and keep your car safe on the road.
Hoffmaster's Auto Care
Our mission at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is to provide our customers with the highest level of car repair service and expertise, delivered with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD has been in business for more than 40 years. All our technicians are ASE certified. You can rely on our experience and knowledge for high-quality auto repair and maintenance services.
